A Transmigrator’s Story in the Hyuga’s Main Branch

167. Whispers of Power: Obito’s Offer to Nagato (3)

Thereafter, the conversation then eventually easily wound down to a mutually agreeable resolution.

Nagato and Konan decided to stay in the secluded cave for the foreseeable future, allowing Nagato the necessary time and tranquility to recuperate.

Obito, acknowledging their current vulnerability, committed to providing them with advanced medical supplies sourced from various parts of the world.

These would be delivered to the cave, ensuring that Konan had everything she needed to aid Nagato's recovery.

Obito also made a specific pledge to Nagato, promising to investigate additional abilities and techniques that could enhance Nagato's control over his Rinnegan.

This was seemingly not only a gesture of goodwill but also a strategic move, ensuring that when Nagato recovered, he would be a more formidable ally, fully capable of wielding his powers in alignment with their shared goals.

"Consider this an investment in our future collaboration," Obito explained. "Your well-being and mastery of your abilities are crucial for the success of our plans. I'll ensure you have access to the best resources to regain your strength and enhance your control over the Rinnegan."

While still cautious, Konan expressed her appreciation for Obito's assurances, relieved that they had secured a safe haven and the promise of support. "Thank you. We'll take this time to recover and consider our next steps carefully," she said, her tone imbued with a hint of guarded optimism.

As Obito prepared to leave, he turned back to them, his mask hiding any expression but his voice carrying a clear note of determination. "I'll be in contact. Rest and recover. When you're ready, we'll begin the real work towards achieving true peace."

With that, Obito and the Zetsu departed, leaving Nagato and Konan alone in the cave's quiet, surrounded by the medical supplies that began arriving shortly thereafter.

The stillness of the cave was a stark contrast to the turmoil of their recent experiences and Yahiko's death, offering a momentary peace as they contemplated the vast and uncertain journey ahead.

As soon as Obito and Zetsu gained some sufficient distance from the cave, the mood between them lightened considerably.

White Zetsu couldn't help but chuckle, breaking the silence with a playful jab at Obito's performance,

"You nailed that Madara impression, didn't you? They had no idea about all the strings you were pulling during that conversation. And to think, we played such a major role in their unfortunate situation!",

Continuing in his typically mischievous tone, White Zetsu shook his head mockingly, "And what's with that dumb orange-haired guy anyway? What do they even see in him to respect him so much?"

Black Zetsu, more focused and less inclined towards humor, responded with a hint of irritation at the levity,

"You shouldn't call anyone else stupid, I feel. And focus on the task. Our manipulation needs to stay sharp if we're going to keep all the pieces in place. They must trust 'Madara' until we're ready to make our next move."

Obito, still in the guise of the stoic leader, allowed himself a small smirk under his mask at White Zetsu's comment, proud for being able to perform on such a high level on his first try, unlike his previous clumsy self who failed at anything he touched.

"Let's keep everything on track. Remember, every step Nagato takes towards recovery under our guidance ties him deeper into our plan. His trust is essential for now, and his power, once fully harnessed, will be invaluable."

As they continued their journey, Obito's thoughts lingered on Nagato's condition. The visible strain on Nagato's body from the earlier ordeal even worried him a little, making him wonder if they should have intervened earlier perhaps,

"He seemed to have expended a great deal of energy back there. What do you think the long-term effects on his powers will be? He essentially powered the entire Ten-Tails husk without any tailed beast sealed inside of it, with his own body's energy for that much time to borrow its power. What an incredible waste, but good for us in terms of controlling him way easier. Lord Madara was right. That's why Nagato appears so hopeless now.", Obito spoke. 

Black Zetsu, always observant and analytical, responded with a clinical precision that underscored the gravity of Nagato's condition,

"His legs appear to be at least partially, if not entirely, crippled. Nagato has undoubtedly expended a large portion of his finite Uzumaki life force.",

"The physical trauma from those chakra rods stabbed into his back has also not only diminished his mobility but has also likely caused significant and lasting damage to his overall physical energy."

Black Zetsu paused, considering the implications, then continued, "Given these circumstances, it's impractical to consider him for roles that involve physical confrontation.",

"His future as a shinobi must be reoriented towards leveraging his Rinnegan's capabilities from a strategic distance. His body may no longer withstand the rigors of direct battle. We must slowly think of something more creative for him over time."

"So, what is the final level of power you think he could eventually achieve after everything?" Obito asked again.

Black Zetsu considered Obito's query with a calculated seriousness, "Estimating his potential level of power is a bit complex given the new limitations...", He began,

"However, I would suggest that Nagato could eventually reach what might be considered Peak Kage level through various Rinnegan hard-to-counter abilities.",

"Despite the severe toll taken on his body today, remember, his understanding and mastery of the Rinnegan is still quite very basic.".

He paused, ensuring that his point was clear, "So there is substantial potential for growth in how he utilizes Rinnegan's diverse abilities.",

"Proper training and guidance could enhance his proficiency significantly, which would compensate for some of the physical deficits he now faces.",

Black Zetsu's tone then shifted slightly, hinting at the underlying risks involved, "That being said, the consistent use of the Rinnegan's powers, especially the more draining techniques, will likely shorten his lifespan considerably.",

"If he continues to exert himself as he did today or close, his life expectancy could be further severely reduced.",

"It's a balance of power versus sustainability. But, remember, the most important thing for us is to "preserve" him for Lord Madara's return....", To which Obito just agreed with 'seriously' whilst replying,

"But couldn't we also implant him with Senju cells if it ever came to that point? Or if we felt like our plan was falling apart for some reason?", Obito tested. 

Black Zetsu absorbed Obito's suggestion, momentarily taken aback by the forward-thinking nature of the question.

"Implanting him with Senju cells could indeed be considered as a last resort...", He admitted cautiously,

"However, our primary goal remains to preserve Nagato's capabilities for Lord Madara's resurrection. Should the situation deteriorate to a critical point, our first course of action must be to compel Nagato to use the Rinne Rebirth technique to bring back Lord Madara."

Obito listened intently, his expression serious. "And if he is unable to perform this task for whatever reason, only then do we consider enhancing him with Senju cells?" he asked, pressing, seeking clarity.

"Yes...", Black Zetsu confirmed, his tone reflecting the gravity of the scenario, "But you must understand, Obito, the risks involved with giving Nagato Senju cells, especially Hashirama's.",

"His already formidable physique, Uzumaki clan lifeforce, everything would have recovered fully probably and then combined with similar amplification from Hashirama's cells manifoldly, could make him nearly unmanageable.",

"Even Madara himself, at his full power, might find such a Nagato difficult to control, to some extent, not to mention us three.",

He narrowed his eyes, emphasizing his next point, "Remember, the Uzumaki already share a lineage close to the Senju. Enhancing Nagato in such a way could push his powers beyond our calculations and control...",

"The Uchiha are not the only 'superpower-like' lineage with profound strength in this world... The balance of power we maintain is delicate, and tipping it too far in one direction could have unpredictable consequences."

Obito nodded slowly, absorbing the strategic implications of their discussion, "I understand."